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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
NSU Alumni Spotlight: Onica Charles
NSU Alumni Onica Charles
Born and raised in Guyana, South America, Onica Charles faced many disadvantages still experienced by its citizens today. When she was twelve years old, her parents brought her to the United States “to give me a chance at a good education.” Charles had no idea that one day, that opportunity would inspire her to create a similar path for others.
Charles (M.P.A. ’09) made the decision to attend Nova because “I was able to begin the program right away. I knew pursuing my Masters would set me apart; I wanted that competitive advantage.” While attending Nova, Charles interned with two local municipalities. Today, she continues employment with the City of Sunrise in the budget department.
Though successful in South Florida’s local government, Charles’ passion is philanthropy. As an undergraduate, she was involved with Alternative Spring Break, spending time off from school to participate in local, national, or international service projects. She traveled to third world countries, visiting clinics and centers that serve disadvantaged communities. During the summer, Charles traveled throughout the Caribbean, North and South America and even Europe to continue her humanitarian work. “I started out simple; handing out sandwiches to the homeless. My work grew from there.”
After completing her M.P.A., Charles established International Children’s Outreach (ICO), Inc., with the goal to “give back to children in need any way possible.” ICO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children facing poverty throughout the world, assisting with food supplies, healthcare, educational resources and health training seminars. ICO also conducts service learning projects, which take college and high school students to third world countries to help those in need. The trips immerse students within the culture while they conduct community service projects. The organization also provides tutoring, motivational speaking and summer camp services.
Click here to read more on Onica Charles.